{"id":1254,"date":"2020-02-09T10:11:00","date_gmt":"2020-02-09T08:11:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/?page_id=1254"},"modified":"2020-02-09T18:35:03","modified_gmt":"2020-02-09T16:35:03","slug":"injisuthi-berg-adventure-actual","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/?page_id=1254","title":{"rendered":"Injisuthi Berg Adventure &#8211; Actual"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>So&#8230;The actual adventure took place on the weekend from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February 2020 and here is a report back on how things went&#8230;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Friday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Friday afternoon \/ evening went very much to plan.  We arrived at Monk&#8217;s Cowl campsite at about 16h30 and got ready and hit the trail at about 17h20.  Here is a picture of the crew shortly before departure.  (Photo by Ruth Manson)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Start_Monks-768x1024.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1264\" width=\"384\" height=\"512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Start_Monks-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Start_Monks-225x300.jpeg 225w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Start_Monks-1x1.jpeg 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Start_Monks.jpeg 780w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 384px) 100vw, 384px\" \/><figcaption><em>Start at Monks Cowl<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The interactive map below depicts the as run route:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"map_ol3js_1\" class=\"map undefined\" data-map_name=\"undefined\" data-map=\"map_ol3js_1\" style=\"width:100%; max-width:100%; height:450px; display:block; overflow:hidden;border:2px solid grey;\" >\n\t\t\t\t  <div id=\"map_ol3js_1_popup\" class=\"ol-popup\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" id=\"map_ol3js_1_popup-closer\" class=\"ol-popup-closer\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"map_ol3js_1_popup-content\" ><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t  <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t<script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['openlayer'] = \"open layer\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['openlayerAtStartup'] = \"open layer at startup\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['generateLink'] = \"link to this map with opened layers\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['shortDescription'] = \"short description\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['generatedShortCode'] = \"to get a text control link paste this code in your wordpress editor\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['closeLayer'] = \"close layer\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['cantGenerateLink'] = \"put this string in the existing map short code to control this map\";\n\t\t\t  <\/script>\n\n\n\t\t\t  <script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\t\t\t  vectorM['map_ol3js_1'] = [];\n\t        \n        var raster = getTileLayer(\"cyclemap\",\"b1dce15aff204eb0b0d6f6b9fbfd39a2\");\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t  var map_ol3js_1 = new ol.Map({\n\t\t\t\tinteractions: ol.interaction.defaults.defaults({mouseWheelZoom:true}),\n\t\t\t\tlayers: [raster],\n\t\t\t\ttarget: \"map_ol3js_1\",\n\t\t\t\tview: new ol.View({\n\t\t\t\t  center: ol.proj.transform([29.3930,-29.086], \"EPSG:4326\", \"EPSG:3857\"),\n\t\t\t\t  zoom: 12.63\n\t\t\t\t})\n\t\t\t  });\n\t\t\t  \n    var style0 = {\n      \"Point\": [new ol.style.Style({\n\n          image: new ol.style.Icon({\n            anchor: [0.5, 41],\n            anchorXUnits: \"fraction\",\n            anchorYUnits: \"pixels\",\n            opacity: 0.75,\n            src: \"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/plugins\/osm\/icons\/mic_blue_pinother_02.png\"\n          })\n      })],\n\n      \"LineString\": [new ol.style.Style({\n        stroke: new ol.style.Stroke({\n          color: \"#ff0000\",\n          width: 8\n        })\n      })],\n      \"MultiLineString\": [new ol.style.Style({\n        stroke: new ol.style.Stroke({\n          color: \"#ff0000\",\n          width: 4\n        })\n      })]\n    };\n\t\t  var vectorL0 = new ol.layer.Vector({\n\t\t\t\tsource: new ol.source.Vector({\n\t\t\t\turl:\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Monks_Inj.gpx\",\n\t\t\t\tformat: new ol.format.GPX({\n\t\t\t\t\textractStyles: false\n\t\t\t\t})\n\t\t\t}),\n\t\t\tzIndex: 92,\n\t\t\tstyle: function(feature, resolution) {return style0[feature.getGeometry().getType()];}\n\t\t  });\n\t\t  map_ol3js_1.addLayer(vectorL0);addControls2Map(map_ol3js_1,0,0,3,1,5,6,7,1,1);\nosm_addPopupClickhandler(map_ol3js_1,  \"map_ol3js_1\"); \nosm_addMouseHover(map_ol3js_1); <\/script>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also see my as run route on Strava <a href=\"https:\/\/www.strava.com\/activities\/3064128030\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The trail from the Monks Cowl campsite up to The Sphinx and beyond is very well established and very easy to follow and is runnabel.  Once you get high enough you can look forward and slightly to the right and if the weather is clear you will see Intunja (Gatberg) with the very distinctive hole in the peak.  You also have magnificent views of Amphletts&#8217;, Turret (Tower), SterkHorn (Mt. Memory) and Cathkin Peak looking from right to left (or north to south.)  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1025\" height=\"750\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/B4_Blind_Mans.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1274\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/B4_Blind_Mans.png 1025w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/B4_Blind_Mans-300x220.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/B4_Blind_Mans-768x562.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/B4_Blind_Mans-1x1.png 1w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1025px) 100vw, 1025px\" \/><figcaption><em>On the way to Blind Man&#8217;s<\/em> <em>Corner<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At Blind Man&#8217;s Corner you turn left and head along the contour path.  You have fantastic views of the &#8216;Berg on your right hand side and ahead as you move mostly south towards the Injisuthi campsite.  After proceeding a few kilometers along the contour path to Shada Ridge one can look back and see Monks Cowl between Cathkin Peak and Champagne Castle.  One also passes a Tarn along the ridge line. The path does become slightly more obscure along Shada Ridge but is still easy to find and follow even in fading light.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1292\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Tarn.png 1040w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Tarn on Shada Ridge (Photo Warren Manson)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The run finishes with a descent of Van Heyningen&#8217;s Pass to the Injisuthi campsite.  The pass is a very easy pass to traverse.  The paths are well established and the pass is not very steep or very technical.  We completed the run in under 3 hours without having to push hard and despite the last hour and a half, or so, being completed in darkness.  This is a fantastic little route and comes highly recommended.  One could even do it in both directions to avoid the logistics required when a car is needed on both ends.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Saturday<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Saturday saw an early start despite the original 03h30 plan being revised to 04h30 and the reality turning out to be 04h45.  Saturday&#8217;s as run route is depicted in the interactive map below:<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\t\t\t\t<div id=\"map_ol3js_2\" class=\"map undefined\" data-map_name=\"undefined\" data-map=\"map_ol3js_2\" style=\"width:100%; max-width:100%; height:450px; display:block; overflow:hidden;border:2px solid grey;\" >\n\t\t\t\t  <div id=\"map_ol3js_2_popup\" class=\"ol-popup\" >\n\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"#\" id=\"map_ol3js_2_popup-closer\" class=\"ol-popup-closer\"><\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<div id=\"map_ol3js_2_popup-content\" ><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t  <\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t\t<script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['openlayer'] = \"open layer\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['openlayerAtStartup'] = \"open layer at startup\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['generateLink'] = \"link to this map with opened layers\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['shortDescription'] = \"short description\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['generatedShortCode'] = \"to get a text control link paste this code in your wordpress editor\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['closeLayer'] = \"close layer\";\n\t\t\t\t\ttranslations['cantGenerateLink'] = \"put this string in the existing map short code to control this map\";\n\t\t\t  <\/script>\n\n\n\t\t\t  <script type=\"text\/javascript\">\n\t\t\t  vectorM['map_ol3js_2'] = [];\n\t        \n        var raster = getTileLayer(\"cyclemap\",\"b1dce15aff204eb0b0d6f6b9fbfd39a2\");\t\t\t\n\n\t\t\t  var map_ol3js_2 = new ol.Map({\n\t\t\t\tinteractions: ol.interaction.defaults.defaults({mouseWheelZoom:true}),\n\t\t\t\tlayers: [raster],\n\t\t\t\ttarget: \"map_ol3js_2\",\n\t\t\t\tview: new ol.View({\n\t\t\t\t  center: ol.proj.transform([29.4454,-29.2063], \"EPSG:4326\", \"EPSG:3857\"),\n\t\t\t\t  zoom: 11.5\n\t\t\t\t})\n\t\t\t  });\n\t\t\t  \n    var style0 = {\n      \"Point\": [new ol.style.Style({\n\n          image: new ol.style.Icon({\n            anchor: [0.5, 41],\n            anchorXUnits: \"fraction\",\n            anchorYUnits: \"pixels\",\n            opacity: 0.75,\n            src: \"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/plugins\/osm\/icons\/mic_blue_pinother_02.png\"\n          })\n      })],\n\n      \"LineString\": [new ol.style.Style({\n        stroke: new ol.style.Stroke({\n          color: \"#ff0000\",\n          width: 8\n        })\n      })],\n      \"MultiLineString\": [new ol.style.Style({\n        stroke: new ol.style.Stroke({\n          color: \"#ff0000\",\n          width: 4\n        })\n      })]\n    };\n\t\t  var vectorL0 = new ol.layer.Vector({\n\t\t\t\tsource: new ol.source.Vector({\n\t\t\t\turl:\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Inj_Loop.gpx\",\n\t\t\t\tformat: new ol.format.GPX({\n\t\t\t\t\textractStyles: false\n\t\t\t\t})\n\t\t\t}),\n\t\t\tzIndex: 92,\n\t\t\tstyle: function(feature, resolution) {return style0[feature.getGeometry().getType()];}\n\t\t  });\n\t\t  map_ol3js_2.addLayer(vectorL0);addControls2Map(map_ol3js_2,0,0,3,1,5,6,7,1,1);\nosm_addPopupClickhandler(map_ol3js_2,  \"map_ol3js_2\"); \nosm_addMouseHover(map_ol3js_2); <\/script>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also see my as run route on Strava <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"here (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.strava.com\/activities\/3064139172\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>.  If you look closely at the Strava track you will see that GPS signal was lost in corner pass.  A cleaned up version of the track is available <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"here (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/download\/1305\/\" target=\"_blank\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One has a very short section of tar road from Injasuthi campsite to the start of the hiking trail up the Injasuti river.  (Yes I know the spellings are different but that is what the map says!!).  Not far from the camp site the route crosses the river.  This can be quite a treacherous crossing depending on the time of year and recent rainfall and park officials have strung a steel cable rope across the river to assist.  The paths close to the campsite going up the Injasuti river valley are clear and open and easily runnable.  The video below depicts some early running in this river valley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video height=\"1080\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 1920 \/ 1080;\" width=\"1920\" controls src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Inj_1.mp4\"><\/video><figcaption><em>Trail close to Injisuthi Camp<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Approximately 5.5km into the route one takes a left up the eMbovaneni river valley.  The path proceeds for 2km up the river valley and although the path at ground level is clear and relatively easy to find the vegetation on either side of the path is extremely thick and overgrown.  It completely conceals the path when viewed from above but more importantly the vegetation has a shredding effect on any exposed skin.  Expect many cuts and scratches after completing this section and count on your pace being slowed substantially.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"677\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798-1024x677.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1317\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798-1024x677.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798-300x198.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798-768x508.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798-2x1.png 2w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0798.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Towards the end of the eMbovaneni valley &#8211; After a leg shredding<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>At about 7.5km there is a confluence of two tributaries of the eMbovaneni river where the route leaves the river valley and starts the trek up &#8220;heartbreak hill&#8221; towards centenary hut and corner pass.  It is advisable to fill up with water at the pool at the base of heartbreak hill because one is unlikely to encounter water again until reaching the top of the escarpment and depending on the season water may be limited on the top.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"701\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800-1024x701.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1314\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800-1024x701.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800-300x205.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800-768x526.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/GOPR0800.png 1300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Top up before heading up heartbreak hill<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The path up heartbreak hill would be extremely easy to follow if it wasn&#8217;t for the, shall we say, challenging gradient.  Bottom line is the path is clear and leg shredding is soon forgotten and replaced by fears of gradient induced heart failure.  On the plus side the views are breathtaking, although, come to think of it, breathtaking may not be ideal under the circumstances.  Oh well!! The climb up heartbreak hill is rewarded with the revelation of Centenary Hut.  The hut will provide some shelter in a heavy storm but is, unfortunately very run down and not really suitable as an overnight spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video height=\"1080\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 1920 \/ 1080;\" width=\"1920\" controls src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut.mp4\"><\/video><figcaption><em>Arriving at Centenary Hut<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"609\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1-1024x609.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1323\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1-1024x609.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1-300x179.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1-768x457.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1-2x1.png 2w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Hut1.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>A run down Centenary Hut<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From Centenary Hut our team took the &#8220;Northern High Approach&#8221; to corner pass.  If in doubt head straight up from the hut and ignore the contour path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1326\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NHP1.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Going up the &#8220;Northern High Approach&#8221;<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"499\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp-1024x499.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1328\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp-1024x499.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp-300x146.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp-768x374.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp-2x1.png 2w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ontwtcp.png 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>On the way to Corner Pass<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1330\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/backc.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Looking back at Centenary on the way to Corner Pass<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Taking the Northern High Approach means that one is off path for the climb away from Centenary Hut but when one crests the first climb, the path to Corner pass is very clearly visible.  The path is narrow with very steep drop-offs to the left but is easy to follow until it &#8220;ends&#8221; in a more or less vertical &#8220;rock-band.&#8221;  The video below shows the approach to the &#8220;rock-band.&#8221;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video height=\"1080\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 1920 \/ 1080;\" width=\"1920\" controls src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/toC.mp4\"><\/video><figcaption><em>Approach to the rock-band<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>To ascend corner pass one has to climb a near vertical rock-band.  The climb is no more than 6 to 8m in length but is a little scary especially when your mates have just advised you of the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>What do you do when you get a good hold in the Berg?<\/em> &#8211; Put it back!!!! <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Anyway&#8230;.the video below gives some idea of the rock-band climb:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-video\"><video height=\"1080\" style=\"aspect-ratio: 1920 \/ 1080;\" width=\"1920\" controls src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Rock_Band.mp4\"><\/video><figcaption><em>Rock-band Climb<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond the rock band there is work to be done but&#8230;nothing feels as life-threatening as the rock band.  Short of a large boulder rolling down the final climb to the top of the escarpment there is nothing to be afraid off.  The climb, of course, still requires a lot of hard work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1338\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Beyond_TRB.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Beyond the Rock-Band Corner Pass<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>And so&#8230;after several hours of climbing one eventually reaches the &#8220;top&#8221; and if the weather is good one is greeted with absolutely spectacular views.  Cresting corner pass opens up many possibilities.  Mafadi (the highest peak in SA) and Injisuthi Dome are both within striking distance but our group chose instead to pay a visit to The Judge, Popple Peak and Sanqebethu.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1341\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/dp.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Death is not out of the question!!!!!<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1342\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/up.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Not Sea Level<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1343\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/WR.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Up equals Smile<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From the top of Corner Pass the route to The Judge peak is very straight-forward.  There is no path but the terrain is easy to cross and the peak is easy to identify.  On a clear day The Judge offers fantastic views.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1347\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/NJ.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Nearly at The Judge Peak<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1345\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Judge.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>A view from The Judge (I think)<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>One has the option of descending Judge Pass but after all the effort of ascending Corner Pass the only logical thing to do is spend some time on top.  From The Judge our team made their way across to Popple Peak.  The image below shows the view of Popple Peak as seen from The Judge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"753\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple-1024x753.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1349\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple-1024x753.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple-300x221.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple-768x565.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Popple.png 1100w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Popple from near The Judge Peak<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>From Popple Peak our route took as to Bannerman&#8217;s Pass where two of our team decided to make the descent to Bannerman Hut and the contour path.  Three intrepid adventures continued on to Sanqebethu Peak.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1352\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Ban.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>The entrance to Bannerman&#8217;s Pass<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1355\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/San.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Sanqebethu looking back towards Popple<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Beyond Sanqebethu one has the option of descending Thumb Pass but our team selected Langalibalele Pass instead.  Before descending the pass one has the option of possibly visiting the Carbineers Graves but having viewed them across the valley we decided to proceed down the pass.  Langalibalele Pass must be one of the easiest high Berg passes, at least in this author&#8217;s experience.  Certainly much easier than Leslie, Ships Prow, Grey&#8217;s, Corner or Judge&#8217;s pass.  The route down Langalibalele was a breeze and just before joining the contour path one can cool off and stock up on water in a lovely pool at the base of a waterfall on the Bushman&#8217;s River (Mtshezi).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1359\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Bush.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The contour path between the base of Langalibalele pass and Bannerman&#8217;s Hut is very clear and easily runnable.  One has fabulous views of mighty Drakensberg peaks on one&#8217;s left and there are several river crossings along the way.  Unfortunately the contour path all but disappears between Bannerman&#8217;s Hut and the base of Judge&#8217;s Pass.  The going gets really tough and one&#8217;s average pace dwindles rapidly.  Fortunately, from the base of Judge&#8217;s pass back to Centenary Hut the contour path is once again easily navigable.  Our team followed the same route back to Injishuthi Campsite on the way back as had been followed to Centenary Hut on the outward journey.  All in all the loop took 16 hours to complete.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1361\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Cont.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>A view on the contour path<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1363\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/ContC.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Contour cruising<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb-1024x768.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1364\" srcset=\"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb-1024x768.png 1024w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb-300x225.png 300w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb-768x576.png 768w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb-1x1.png 1w, https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/DownHb.png 1212w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption><em>Down Heartbreak Hill &#8211; On the way home.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>So&#8230;The actual adventure took place on the weekend from the 31st of January to the 2nd of February 2020 and here is a report back on how things went&#8230; Friday Friday afternoon \/ evening went very much to plan. We arrived at Monk&#8217;s Cowl campsite at about 16h30 and got ready and hit the trail [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":1257,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_coblocks_attr":"","_coblocks_dimensions":"","_coblocks_responsive_height":"","_coblocks_accordion_ie_support":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-1254","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1254","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1254"}],"version-history":[{"count":57,"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1254\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1366,"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1254\/revisions\/1366"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1257"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/geekiegroup.com\/fasyg\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1254"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}